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effective

[ih-fek-tiv, ee-fek‐] / ɪˈfɛk tɪv, iˈfɛk‐ /




Usage

What are other ways to say effective? The adjective effective is applied to a person or a thing that has the power to, or which actually does, produce an effect: an effective boss, remedy, speech. Effectual is used especially of that which produces the effect desired or intended, or a decisive result: An effectual bombardment silenced the enemy. Efficacious suggests the capability of achieving a certain end: an efficacious plan, medicine. Efficient (applied also to persons) implies the skillful use of energy or industry to accomplish desired results with little waste of effort: efficient methods; an efficient manager. 

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Newer studies found that microfinance is effective at helping existing entrepreneurs expand their businesses.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 11, 2026

The author argues that these particles may have been among the most effective MN-zymes and could have occupied a central place in the evolutionary history of nanozymes during the OoL on Earth.

From Science Daily • Jun. 10, 2026

Bielli said: "What we want is to make sure that before we advise if pingers are effective that we have enough information collected to do a comparison."

From BBC • Jun. 10, 2026

And unlike many wealthy self-funders, Steyer did not leap into a campaign as a political neophyte who assumed their business skills would translate into being an effective elected official.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 10, 2026

Writing 3: Write narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective technique, descriptive details, and clear event sequences.

From "Music and the Child" by Natalie Sarrazin




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